1936 Faune, cheval et oiseau Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) Period of creation: 1931-1942

Here we see a drawing rendered in muted blue and grey tones, with areas of darker shading creating depth and form. The composition is dominated by two central figures: a humanoid figure on the left and a creature resembling a horse or equine animal on the right. A vertical structure, possibly a wall or pillar, anchors the scene on the far right edge.
The humanoid figure appears to be in a state of distress or contemplation. Its posture is hunched, with one hand raised as if warding off something unseen. The face is obscured by shadow and rendered with an unsettling ambiguity – it’s difficult to discern clear features, contributing to a sense of unease and psychological complexity. This lack of clarity suggests a deeper emotional turmoil or perhaps a symbolic representation of humanity grappling with existential questions.
The equine creature is depicted in a highly stylized and distorted manner. Its body is elongated and sinuous, with intricate patterns etched into its surface. The head is contorted in what appears to be a grimace or roar, conveying a sense of primal energy and potential threat. This figure’s exaggerated form disrupts any naturalistic interpretation, suggesting it represents something beyond the literal – perhaps a manifestation of inner demons, repressed instincts, or a symbolic representation of power.
The background is rendered with horizontal lines that evoke a landscape, though its nature remains undefined. The lack of detail in the background further focuses attention on the two central figures and their interaction (or lack thereof). They seem isolated within this ambiguous space, reinforcing a feeling of alienation and psychological tension.
The artist’s use of hatching and cross-hatching creates texture and volume, adding to the overall sense of unease and complexity. The limited color palette contributes to a somber and melancholic mood. The drawing doesnt present a narrative in a conventional sense; rather, it evokes an atmosphere of anxiety, mystery, and psychological exploration. It suggests a dreamlike or symbolic realm where familiar forms are distorted and imbued with unsettling significance.